Lake and McHenry Counties

Use the Find Food IL map to find places in your community offering free food or meals. You can also find pantries that accept donations.

Exciting Events and Series

many hands holding seeds

Lake County Master Gardener Seed Expo

Mark your calendars for March 7, 2026! The Lake County Master Gardeners' Seed Expo will be held at the College of Lake County. More info to come.

Community members tending to a garden that is just starting to sprout

Community and School Gardens Course Offering

On March 10 in McHenry County, we will learn how gardens build environmental literacy, encourage healthy eating habits, and promote teamwork and curiosity among community members.

Announcements & Highlights

A woman holding a box of tomatoes in front of  food pantry shelf

Find Food. Share Support

This hands-on session is designed to strengthen your ability to connect individuals and families with reliable food resources in their communities. Participants will explore the Find Food Illinois app and learn how to use it effectively when assisting clients.

A pile of Pesticide and Farm reference books

Resources Available

Farm Record Books, Pesticide Applicator Training Manuals, and Workbooks are available for purchase through your local Extension Office. There is a wide variety of study materials available to help you prepare for the Illinois Pesticide Applicator/Operator Licensure Exams.

A landscape divided into a thriving green space and a barren one

Lake County Extension to Host One-Day Climate Resilience Workshops for Local Leaders and Residents

To help both local governments and residents better understand the effects of a changing climate and prepare for the future, the University of Illinois Extension in Lake County will host a one-day climate resilience event on April 21, 2026, featuring two workshops hosted by Climate Resilience Specialist for Extension, Jessica Rudnick, PhD.

News Releases
A group of Master Naturalists standing in a field by a river
Lake County Welcomes First Class of Master Naturalists
Grayslake, IL  —The University of Illinois Extension officially launched the Master Naturalist program in Lake County in 2025, with 24 individuals completing the classroom portion of their training in the fall. Over the course of 12 weeks, trainees participated in...

Connect. Learn. Grow

A leaf with discoloration and insects bites

Plant Problems? Insects Invading? What's that Weed?

Call our Master Gardener Helpline and a U of I Extension Master Gardener will answer your questions at NO COST! From insects to pollinator gardens, crabgrass to milkweed, if you have a question, they can help!

A person in prairie grass with binoculars

Become a Master Naturalist

Volunteer as a Master Naturalist to facilitate conservation and restoration in your community and educate others about natural resources.

A plate of healthy food, a bottle of water and exercise equipment

Eat well, stay active, and save money

Find tasty recipes, shopping tips, and activities to keep you and your family healthy.

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings